Metal Speciation
A growing trend in the world of elemental analysis has revolved around the speciation of certain metals such as chromium and arsenic. One of the primary techniques to achieve this is to use an ICP-MS in combination with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or field flow fractionation (FFF). There are many advantages, from a clinical standpoint, in knowing the specific species present within a patient's body. For example, one species of chromium, known as trivalent chromium (Cr(III)), is needed by the body and causes no ill effects; however, hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)), is very toxic to the body. Chromium VI can cause mutations that may lead to cancer if not repaired by the body.
It is also beneficial for a clinician to utilize speciation analysis from a preventative standpoint. Many patients, who suffer from elevated levels of certain metals, do not know when or where the exposure incident(s) are occurring. By identifying the exact species, a physician can better narrow the search for possible exposure sites, therefore helping the patient to avoid certain areas in the future.
Read more about this topic: Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry
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